Cosovereign

/koʊˈsɑvrɪn/ noun

Definition

A ruler who shares sovereign power equally with another ruler or rulers.

Etymology

From co- (Latin 'together') + sovereign (from Old French soverain, meaning supreme ruler). The prefix co- was added to indicate joint or shared authority.

Kelly Says

Medieval and early modern Europe used cosovereigns all the time—married monarchs ruling jointly meant both had equal claim to the throne, which led to fascinating political complications when they disagreed on major decisions.

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